A wave of celebration swept across Gboko in Benue State on Wednesday as Dangote Cement Plc and six host communities signed a landmark Community Development Agreement (CDA), ushering in a new era of development and cooperation.
The multimillion-dollar pact is set to transform the lives of residents through enhanced infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment initiatives.
The historic agreement was formalized at a ceremony attended by dignitaries, community leaders, and representatives of Dangote Cement.
His Royal Highness, Ter Gboko, Gabriel Shosum, described the occasion as the realization of longstanding aspirations, marking a turning point in relations between the company and its host communities.
He expressed gratitude to Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, for addressing the communities’ developmental needs and urging all stakeholders to maintain peace and harmony to support the company’s operations.
Representing the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mrs Bimbo Sariat Olawoye commended the achievement and stressed the importance of collective efforts to ensure the full implementation of the CDA.
“This agreement is a model for corporate-community relations and showcases the potential for partnerships to drive meaningful change,” she stated.
Elias T. Yina, Executive Chairman of Gboko Local Government, described the agreement as unparalleled in Dangote Cement’s four-decade history, emphasizing its potential to uplift not just Gboko but the entire state.
Louis K. Raj, Plant Director of Dangote Cement’s Gboko facility, outlined the scope of the development initiatives.
He highlighted plans to improve infrastructure, healthcare, and education, alongside economic empowerment programs for youth, women, and farmers.
Social investments under the CDA include scholarship grants for secondary and tertiary students, potable water projects, and enhanced electrification in host communities.
“This agreement marks the beginning of sustainable development in our host communities,” Raj stated.
“We are committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure these projects make a lasting impact,” he added.
The six communities benefiting from the pact—Tse-Kucha (Mbatyula), Quarry, Amua (Mbakper), Mbazembe, Mbatur, and Pass Brothers—welcomed the agreement with optimism.
Mr Wakeel Olayiwola, Dangote Cement’s Head of Social Performance, described the CDA as a milestone that underscores the company’s dedication to social responsibility.
The five-year agreement will focus on infrastructure, education, and social welfare interventions.
Prince Yandev Amaabai, President General of the Jemgbash Development Association, urged residents to sustain peace and avoid violence, emphasizing that Dangote’s presence had brought jobs and support to the region.
“It’s our responsibility to support the company and maintain harmony for mutual benefit,” he said.
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